RobertJan Smits

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Towards Joint Programming in Research Working
together to tackle common challenges more
effectively
Robert-Jan Smits Brussels, 13 february 2009
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European Research AreaBuilding blocks

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Joint Programming in Research

• Key Challenges
• Science and Technology must contribute to solving
  major societal challenges
• Benefits not optimised due to compartmentalisation
  of public research funding in the EU
• National research programmes have their place
  but are not equipped to tackle major European
  societal problems by themselves

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Joint Programming in Research

• Response to challenges
• Commission Communication on Joint Programming
  (July 2008)
• Council Conclusions adopted in December 2008
• Definition of Joint Programming Member States
  engaging
• Voluntary and on the basis of variable geometry
• in the definition, development and
  implementation of common strategic research
  agendas
• based on a common vision on how to address major
  societal challenges

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Joint Programming in Research

• What Joint Programming is not
• it is not about asking for more power to the
  Commission
• it is not a new instrument for Community research
• It will not involve Community funding a priori

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Joint Programming in Research

• Joint Programming is a concept which
• Recognises the importance of existing activities
  and initiatives
• Recognises the increasing need for a new and more
  strategic approach
• Calls for the implementation of a Member
  States-led process to step up their RD
  cooperation
• Fully recognises the competence of member States
  and regions over the choice of RD policies and
  the related allocation of resources

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Joint Programming in Research

• Identifying the themes for Joint Programming
• - Creation of a High Level Group on Joint
  Programming to identify Joint Programming themes
  (following broad stakeholder consultation)
• - Criteria to identify Joint Programming themes
• Effective commitment of Member States
• The theme is focussed and addresses a
  European/global challenge
• Clear and realistic objectives can be set
• Clear added value to existing situation in
  research financing
• Relevant stakeholders have been involved
• Potential of generating benefits for European
  citizens/ -competitiveness, and of increasing
  efficiency and impact of public RD financing by
  involving the key public initiatives in the area.
  

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Joint Programming in Research

• Framework conditions
• Member States, supported by the Commission, to
  consider how best to address
• A coherent approach on the peer review
  procedures
• A coherent approach for foresight activities and
  for evaluation of joint programmes
• A coherent approach to funding of cross-border
  research by national or regional authorities
• Effective measures to ensure the optimum
  dissemination and use of research findings
• Involvement of the various scientific and, where
  appropriate, industry communities.

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Joint Programming in Research

• Thank you for your attention
• Robert-Jan Smits